Textile Finishing
In textile manufacturing, finishing refers to the processes that convert the woven or knitted cloth into a usable material and more specifically to any process performed after dyeing the yarn or fabric to improve the look, performance, or “hand” (feel) of the finish textile or clothing.
Objectives
Finishing is a final process given to a textile material to
-
- Give a good appearance
- Desirable feel
- Impart certain durable properties
- Stiffness
- Softness
- Wash and wear finish
- Water-repelling finish
- Fireproof finish etc.
- To impart some desired functional properties
Classification of Textile Finishing
Classification according to the nature of finish
1. Physical or Mechanical Finish
Mechanical / Physical finishes involve specific physical treatment to a fabric surface to cause a change in the fabric appearance. Also known as dry finish.
- Compacting (Shrinkproofing)
- Calendaring
- Raising (Napping, Sueding)
- Shearing
- Polishing
- Corduroy Cutting
- Decating
2. Chemical Finish
Chemicals are used followed by curing or drying. Also known as wet finish.
- Mercerization
- Easy-care finish
Classification according to the degree of permanence
1. Permanent Finish:
Usually, involve a chemical change in fibre structure and do not change or alter through out the life of the fabric
2. Durable finish:
Usually, last through the life of the article, but effectiveness becomes diminished after each cleaning; and near the end of the normal use life of the article, the finish is nearly removed
3. Semi-durable finish:
Last through several laundering or dry cleanings and many are renewable in home laundering or dry cleaning
4. Temporary finish:
Are removed or substantially diminished the first time the article is laundered or drycleaned
